Are deodorants with aluminum bad for you?

If a deodorant contains aluminum, it then becomes an antiperspirant. In other words, the goal of aluminum is to block sweat glands, says Dr. Holmes. “There are rumors that aluminum in deodorants and antiperspirants can cause Alzheimer's disease or breast cancer,” says Dr. Holmes. “Scientific literature states there is no link between aluminum chloride and the development of Alzheimer's.” And, although some scientists have suggested otherwise, there is currently no scientific evidence that supports a link between aluminum in deodorants and breast cancer.

Do deodorants expire?

Like any product, deodorants and antiperspirants do have a shelf life. They typically last between one and three years. Be sure to check the expiration date on your specific product, which is often located on the label.

Is spray or stick deodorant better?

The choice between a spray or stick deodorant is completely up to personal preference, says Garshick. It’s most important to choose a product that’s easy and pleasant to use.

Why do some people’s armpits sweat so much, even with deodorant?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that is characterized by excessive sweating, Garshick says. This could be why some people’s armpits sweat so much, even with deodorant. But if you produce excess sweat and don’t have this condition, it may be because you’re using a deodorant and not an antiperspirant. Antiperspirants (like Biotherma’s Antiperspirant Cream ) are designed specifically to help reduce or block sweating, she explains.

How often should you apply deodorant if you sweat a lot?

It’s best to apply deodorant in the morning and reapply as needed throughout the day, Garshick says. To get the most out of an antiperspirant, you should apply it to dry skin at nighttime before going to bed.

What’s the best deodorant to stop sweaty armpits?

If sweat is your main concern, opt for an antiperspirant—we recommend DERMAdoctor’s Total Nonscents Ultra-Gentle Brightening Antiperspirant and SweatBlock’s Clinical Strength DRIBOOST Antiperspirant Wipes , among others. While deodorants work to minimize odor, we found that antiperspirants can really make a difference when it comes to excess moisture and sweat under your arms.

The 17 Best Deodorants for Women of 2023

Best Womenâs Deodorants and Antiperspirants — VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

Sweat in your eyes during a tough workout may be annoying, but it’s also a sign that your body is hard at work (in addition to building muscle). Sweating helps cool you down during periods of intense physical activity or exposure to higher temperatures. This thermoregulating process is also responsible for other important functions, like clearing out excess toxins from the body. But despite its vital functions, sweating often leaves your underarms feeling wet and smelling less than pleasant. Thankfully, the right deodorant or antiperspirant can help.

First, it’s important to decide whether you’re looking for a true deodorant or an antiperspirant, says dermatologist Lauren Penzi, MD. A deodorant's main function is to block odor, while antiperspirants work primarily to protect against wetness and sweat stains. Can’t choose? Many options combine both.

You should also consider application type—spray, roll-on, solid stick, crystal, wipe, gel, or cream—and ingredients. Aluminum is the most common active ingredient in antiperspirants that helps reduce sweating, Penzi says. But if you prefer an aluminum-free product, look for more natural ingredients like baking soda, magnesium, beeswax, and essential oils. If you have super sensitive skin, Penzi recommends skipping formulations with fragrance or other potentially irritating ingredients.

With all of that to consider, plus the thousands of products on the market, narrowing down which one is right for you can be overwhelming. To take out the guesswork, we researched and tested over 35 best-selling deodorants, antiperspirants, and hybrid products of varying application types and formulations. Our team of expert testers evaluated products for efficacy, texture, scent, transfer resistance, and overall value, scoring each on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) in these key categories. We used these scores and detailed insights to create this final list of recommendations for our readers.

Another reason to trust our recommendations? We had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this story for accuracy and the best way to evaluate deodorants.

Are Deodorants and Antiperspirants with Aluminum Safe to Use?

Antiperspirants with aluminum are thought to be the most effective at reducing sweat because the active ingredient works by plugging up sweat glands to directly block the release of sweat, thereby reducing wetness, says dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD. Deodorant never contains aluminum as its main function is to reduce odor, not sweat.

While there has been some concern about aluminum related to Alzheimer’s disease and Breast cancer, there are no recent studies that suggest an increased risk associated with aluminum in antiperspirants, says Dr. Garshick. Aluminum, however, may be irritating for some individuals with sensitive skin. And for those who prefer more natural products, there are many aluminum-free options available. However, it is important to remember that aluminum is the only ingredient approved by the FDA to be included in antiperspirants, says Dr. Garshick.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Uriage Clinical Strength Deodorant at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Arm & Hammer Ultra Max at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Skin:

DERMAdoctor Total Nonscents Ultra Gentle Antiperspirant at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Workouts:

Degree Advanced Antiperspirant Deodorant at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Roll-On:

Clinique Fragrance Free Deodorant at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Fragrance-Free:

Vanicream Antiperspirant Deodorant at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Cream:

Biotherm Deo Pure Antiperspirant, Cream at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Stick:

Secret Clinical Strength at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Clinical Strength:

Certain Dri Clinical Prescription Strength Antiperspirant at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Smelling:

Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
We Also Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Strong odor protection
No transfer or stains
Great scent

Cons

Slight sweating post-workout

Uriage’s Eau Thermale Power 3 is a deodorant and antiperspirant that protects against both odor and sweat—which proved true during our test. It’s also a clinical strength product that’s formulated with aluminum salts. According to Dr. Penzi, clinical strength formulas contain higher levels of aluminum compared to regular strength formulas, meaning maximum sweat protection.

After completing a 15-minute treadmill workout and two minutes of jumping jacks, we performed a sniff test and found no trace of odor. Instead, we only noticed the product’s strong, clean scent. After 24 hours of wear, there was still a feeling of freshness and absence of stinky odors. The roll-on application glides on smoothly, instantly absorbs, and leaves behind no transfer on clothing (even the black shirt that our tester wore!).

We did find that, after intense physical activity, there was some dampness in the armpit area. But we’d still recommend this product for most users looking for a high-quality, clinical strength, hybrid product.

Price at time of publication: $13

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Roll-on | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Clinical strength}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao
VeryWell Family / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao

4.7

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

4/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Great scent
Strong odor protection
Minimizes sweat

Cons

Slight transfer

Just like our best overall pick, Arm & Hammer’s Ultra Max Antiperspirant Deodorant is a hybrid product that we found successfully prevents sweating and blocks odor. It kept our underarms fresh throughout testing, minimizing sweat and smells during a long commute through New York City’s bustling summer streets.

Efficacy is not the only feature in which this product shines: We also love the long-lasting “Cool Blast” scent that smells like fresh laundry and won’t irritate sensitive skin. The solid stick provides a smooth application, although we did notice a little transfer on our clothing after a long day of wear.

But for less than a third of the price of some of our other top picks, we think this stick offers great protection.

Price at time of publication: $9

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Solid stick | Size: 2.6 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Not listed}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao
VeryWell Family / Jessica Juliao
VeryWell Family / Jessica Juliao
VeryWell Family / Jessica Juliao

4.8

Dermstore

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4/5

Pros

Strong odor protection
Minimizes sweat
Great for sensitive skin

Cons

Expensive

Ideal for sensitive skin, DERMAdoctor’s Total Nonscents Ultra-Gentle Brightening Antiperspirant is a water-based, fragrance-free formulation that works to even the appearance of your underarm complexion. While we didn’t test its brightening effects, this antiperspirant did leave our armpits dry and odor-free throughout the 24-hour testing period.

The product rolls on wet but dries clear in seconds, without leaving behind any clumpy, sticky residue that you might otherwise find with roll-on applicators. Despite its higher price, we think this pick from DERMAdoctor is worth investing in for those with sensitive skin.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Roll-on | Size: 3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Clinical strength}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao
VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao
VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.8

Walmart

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

4/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Long-lasting fragrance
Minimizes sweat
All-day protection

Cons

Fragrance may be too strong for some

Whether you’re sweating it out during hot yoga or running in the heat, you’ll need a strong and effective product to prevent wetness and unpleasant body odor. A hybrid product, Degree’s Antiperspirant Deodorant claims to provide up to 72 hours of protection—and after testing, we were seriously impressed with the results.

The product has a clean laundry scent that lasted through over 24 hours of testing, commuting, sleeping, and intense physical activity. It also left our underarms completely sweat- and odor-free. We like that the smooth stick applicator didn’t leave behind any transfer (even on our tester’s black shirt!). But while we love the product's fresh fragrance, it may be too strong for those with sensitive skin or lighter scent preferences.

Price at time of publication: $20 (4-pack)

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Solid stick | Size: 2.6 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Not listed}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.7

Ulta

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Dries clear in seconds
Great for sensitive skin
No transfer or stains

Cons

Some odor after 24 hours
Not great for working out

Clinique’s Antiperspirant Deodorant rolls on wet, but dries completely clear almost instantly—leaving no transfer, residue, or stains behind. We love that it’s fragrance-free for sensitive skin types, with a lightweight feel that’s ideal for everyday wear.

During testing, this product helped minimize sweat and stink. But after 24 hours of wear, we did notice some excess wetness and unwelcomed body odor. So for working out, we recommend a stronger product, like Degree’s Antiperspirant Deodorant.

Still, we think this is a great everyday pick that’s suitable for all skin types.

Price at time of publication: $40

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Roll-on | Size: 2 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Not listed}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.8

Walmart

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

3.5/5
Transfer Resistance

4/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Strong odor protection
Minimizes sweat
Great for sensitive skin

Cons

White transfer left on shirt

Vanicream’s Antiperspirant Deodorant is a powerful clinical strength product that’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Despite having no scent, the product did a great job at keeping our body odor at bay during workouts and a 24-hour test. We also found that it minimized sweat, even after a long, hot summer commute.

While we love that this hybrid antiperspirant-deodorant provides proper protection—at a budget-friendly price—we were less fond of the white residue that was left behind on our clothing. This is fairly standard for solid white stick application types, but we did appreciate that any transfer was gone after a simple wash cycle.

Price at time of publication: $10

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Solid stick | Size: 2.3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Clinical strength}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.8

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4/5

Pros

Strong odor protection
Great scent
No transfer or stains

Cons

Expensive

Cream deodorants allow for better control because you can squeeze out as much product as you want and apply it directly using your fingers. We love Biotherma’s Deo Pure Antiperspirant because it fully absorbs into the skin in seconds, without leaving any residue or transfer behind.

This product does a great job at protecting against excess moisture and stinky body odor—lasting through test workouts and a full workday. Along with its efficacy, we also love the product’s long-lasting, soft, and clean scent. One downside is that it’s more expensive than some other products on our list, but we still recommend it if you’re in the market for a high-quality cream antiperspirant.

Price at time of publication: $28

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Cream | Size: 2.5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Not listed}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.8

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Great scent
Strong odor protection

Cons

Slight transfer

This product, like our best overall pick, is a clinical strength antiperspirant-deodorant hybrid that works to keep sweat and odors at bay. We found that after 24 hours of wear, you can still smell the light and clean lavender scent—and no unwanted B.O.

Secret’s Clinical Strength Invisible Solid goes on silky smooth, but it did leave behind a very minimal amount of transfer. You can easily remove any residue with a simple wash cycle. As far as stick products go, we love this one for its simple formula that really works.

Price at time of publication: $13

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Invisible solid | Size: 2.6 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Clinical strength}

4.5

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Strong odor protection
Minimizes sweat

Cons

May irritate sensitive skin

Clinical strength means that a product contains higher levels of aluminum compared to traditional formulas, says Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist. Despite concerns surrounding this ingredient, there is limited evidence to suggest an increased risk associated with aluminum in antiperspirants. In fact, if you suffer from excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis, you will benefit from a clinical strength product like this one.

We love Certain Dri’s Prescription Strength Clinical Antiperspirant for its intense protection against sweat and odors—it kept our armpits dry and stink-free for up to 24 hours. The product rolls on wet but dries instantly and doesn't transfer. And we love that it’s budget-friendly, too.

However, although it’s fragrance-free, the concentration of active ingredients may be too strong for those with sensitive skin.

Price at time of publication: $11

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Roll-on | Size: 1.2 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Clinical strength}

Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.5

Ulta

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

4/5
Overall Value

5/5

Pros

Smooth application
Luxurious feel
Strong odor protection

Cons

Expensive
Slight sweating post-workout

Donna Karan’s Cashmere Mist Aluminum-Free Deodorant offers an enjoyable, luxurious experience. We love how smoothly it applies, with a light and powdery texture. But its biggest selling point is the fresh bergamot, warm sandalwood scent that makes this product worth the investment—if you’re into fragrance and have the budget to splurge.

This pick is a deodorant, so its primary function is to block odor. It kept our underarms successfully stink-free for up to 24 hours. But after one workout, we felt slightly damp—and after 24 hours of wear, we were definitely sweating.

We do appreciate that despite its classic white solid stick application, this deodorant doesn’t leave behind any transfer. If you want to splurge on a product that will elevate your daily routine, this pick is for you.

Price at time of publication: $32

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Solid stick | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: Yes | Strength: Not listed}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.7

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4.5/5
Scent

4/5
Texture

4.5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4.5/5

Pros

Great for those with hyperhydrosis
No transfer or stains
Minimizes sweat

Cons

May irritate sensitive skin

A clinical strength antiperspirant, SweatBlock’s wipes are a powerful product that can treat hyperhidrosis and excessive sweating. There are 10 wipes per box and the brand claims each wipe can provide up to 7 days of protection. It’s important to note that we didn’t test this claim, but we were impressed by the results we did discover.

Application was easy: With just one swipe, the product instantly dried and absorbed into the skin—without leaving behind any transfer. After 24 hours of wear (including one intense workout and a long work commute), our armpits felt completely dry and sweat-free. There was some musk toward the end of the day, but pairing this product with deodorant is a great way to guarantee maximum sweat and odor protection.

However, some wearers have found that these wipes can irritate sensitive skin.

Price at time of publication: $20 (10 count)

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Wipe | Size: 10 wipes | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Clinical strength}

4.3

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

4/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4/5

Pros

Great for sensitive skin
No transfer or stains

Cons

Protection isn’t as strong as others

We love Crystal’s Mineral Deodorant Roll-On because it offers a more natural way to protect against sweat and odor. Crystal deodorants like this one are a great option for those with sensitive skin because they’re made from natural mineral salts, without any potentially irritating fragrance or active ingredients (like aluminum).

During testing, we were pleased with how the deodorant rolled on smoothly, although the wetness took some time to dry. After it has dried, the product doesn’t leave behind any transfer or stains.

However, we noticed that this deodorant wasn’t as protective as others we tested. For a deodorant with better sweat-blocking abilities, we recommend our top overall pick, Uriage’s Clinical Strength Deodorant.

Price at time of publication: $43 (6-pack)

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Roll-on | Size: 2.3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: Yes | Strength: Not listed}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4.5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

3/5
Overall Value

4/5

Pros

Minizes sweat
Great scent
Great for those with hyperhydrosis

Cons

Some transfer

We had a successful 24-hour experience with DuraDry’s AM Deodorant and Antiperspirant Stick. The prescription-strength product kept our armpits completely dry and odor-free throughout the testing period. And we love that it comes in a pack of three, making it a budget-friendly pick, too.

This hybrid product applies smooth and clear, but unfortunately, it did leave behind some white streaks on our tester’s shirt. The fresh grapefruit and sweet musk scent makes this product a great choice for both men and women—so you can keep one for yourself and share the rest with your loved ones.

Price at time of publication: $35 (3-pack) or $14 (for one)

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Solid stick | Size: 2.3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Clinical strength}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

3.5/5
Scent

3.5/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4/5

Pros

Great scent
No transfer or stains
Budget-friendly

Cons

Slight sweating post-workout
Some odor after 24 hours

Dove’s Advanced Care Invisible Dry Spray is an antiperspirant-deodorant hybrid that offers decent protection at a low price. But if you tend to sweat or stink a lot, you might want to opt for a more powerful product like Degree’s Advanced Antiperspirant Deodorant, since we found that this pick didn’t provide full 24-hour protection from either.

What we do love is the convenience of this product’s spray application, and its light, fresh, and long-lasting scent. We also like that this deodorant applies clear and doesn’t leave any transfer marks or stains.

Price at time of publication: $7

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Spray | Size: 3.8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Not listed}

VeryWell Fit / Jessica Juliao

4.9

Amazon

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Pros

Free of aluminum, parabens, and talc
Strong odor protection
Multiple fragrance options

Cons

Coconut oil can be a comedogenic

This natural deodorant is free of talc, aluminum, and parabens. Instead, it uses a combination of baking soda and magnesium hydroxide to kick body odor to the curb. It also includes tapioca starch to ensure your underarms stay dry throughout the day.

Jam-packed with antioxidant-rich coconut oil and shea butter, Native’s Deodorant will moisturize while providing a subtle scent. Just keep in mind that coconut oil can be comedogenic, meaning it may clog your pores, so this deodorant isn’t the best choice if you’re prone to underarm acne.

Price at time of publication: $13

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Solid stick | Size: 2.6 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Aluminum-Free: Yes | Strength: Not listed}

Courtesy by Nordstrom

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Pros

Vegan
Free of aluminum, parabens, and talc
Multiple fragrance options

Cons

Expensive

With notes of bergamot, pink lemon, orange blossom, and cardamom, this stick doubles as a sweet fragrance in addition to deodorant. It's formulated with plant-based ingredients like Saccharomyces ferment filtrate (from yeast) and tapioca starch, shielding against sweat while caring for your underarms.

Packaged in a recyclable tube, this option glides on smoothly and won't leave your underarms feeling sticky. But it’s more expensive than most of our other top picks.

Price at time of publication: $26

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Stick | Size: 2.6 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: Yes | Strength: Not listed}

Walmart

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Pros

Budget-friendly
Free of fragrance and alcohol
Quick-drying

Cons

Not great for working out

This budget-friendly option from Almay is free of harsh fragrances and alcohol (ingredients that those with sensitive skin may have to avoid). It's also hypoallergenic, so you won't have to worry about redness or breakouts. The quick-drying deodorant goes on clear, and the formula is designed to keep sweat away all day.

While we didn’t test this product ourselves, we think the formula may not be ideal for high-sweat scenarios like working out.

Price at time of publication: $4

^{Key Specs:
Application Type: Stick | Size: 2.3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Not listed | Aluminum-Free: No | Strength: Not listed}

How We Rated the Women’s Deodorants

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best women’s deodorants we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These women’s deodorants are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great women’s deodorants, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These women’s deodorants are just average.
3.4 and below: We don't recommend women’s deodorants with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

We Also Tested:

We tested over 35 women’s deodorants and antiperspirants, but you won’t find all of them here. Some of the products we tested fell short in one or more key attributes, causing us to omit them from our final list of recommendations. While these two didn’t make the cut, we did find some valuable features worth noting:

During our test, Secret’s Stress Response Clinical Strength Deodorant and Antiperspirant did a great job of minimizing odor and sweat. But the product did not perform well in transfer resistance, leaving behind a noticeable white streak on our tester’s shirt.
We liked Tom's Coconut Lavender Antiperspirant Deodorant for its odor-minimizing capabilities. But we did not like the uncomfortable sticky texture and noticeable transfer stains that were left behind.

How We Tested and Selected the Women’s Deodorants

There’s an overwhelming influx of women’s deodorant and antiperspirant products on the market. To take out the guesswork and find the best recommendations for our readers, we spent hours researching and testing best-selling products. We also spoke with three dermatologists—Yolanda C. Holmes, MD, FAAD, Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, and Lauren Penzi, MD—for their expert advice on what to look for and what to avoid when purchasing a deodorant or antiperspirant. Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, also provided expert oversight and guidance during our test.

In total, we tested over 35 products from both popular and lesser-known brands in The Verywell Testing Lab. Our team of testers included 15 editors, each with their own unique experience in using deodorants and antiperspirants. For the test, each tester was instructed to apply the deodorant or antiperspirant to a clean and dry armpit, engage in at least 15 minutes of heart rate-elevating activity, and subsequently perform a sniff test. They also took note of any wetness or odor after 24 hours of wear.

We evaluated products for efficacy, texture, scent, transfer resistance, and overall value—scoring each on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) in these key categories. We also used testers’ scores and detailed insights to generate a list of the best women’s deodorants and antiperspirants on the market today.

What to Look for in Women’s Deodorants

Antiperspirants vs. Deodorants

Antiperspirants are designed to block the release of sweat, while deodorants are designed to mask odor, Garshick says. In some cases, deodorants may also work to absorb excess moisture. Products can exist as an antiperspirant, deodorant, or as a combination of both, she adds. Choosing between an antiperspirant and a deodorant will depend on your own personal preference and reason for purchasing. If you’re unsure, you can’t go wrong with choosing a hybrid product—like our top overall pick, Uriage’s Clinical Strength Deodorant.

Ingredients

“Antiperspirants containing aluminum are thought to be the most effective at reducing sweat,” Garshick says. “But other ingredients that may be incorporated into deodorants include baking soda, coconut oil, zinc oxide and mineral salts, magnesium, shea butter, tea tree oil, corn starch, lichens, witch hazel, aloe, vegetable glycerin, tannic acid (found in tea), and several others, as well as fragrances.”

A natural ingredient like magnesium may help to neutralize body odor by balancing pH, but it won’t prevent sweat. On the other hand, baking soda can balance pH levels to reduce odor and help absorb excess moisture, Garshick says. Tannic acid, which can be found in black tea, also has odor-minimizing capabilities. And peptides, which can be found in many aluminum-free products, can decrease stimulation of the muscle that triggers sweat release and may also block the pores that release sweat, she adds.

Look for a deodorant or antiperspirant with ingredients that are intended to address your main concerns, whether you’re looking for something to minimize sweat or control odor. Also, make sure the product you choose doesn’t have too many strong ingredients (especially fragrances) if you have sensitive skin.

Application Type

Deodorants and antiperspirants come in a variety of application types, including a solid stick, gel, cream, powder, and wipes. The choice comes down to personal preference, Garshick says. Note that, in our test, we found that solid, white sticks tend to transfer more than other types of deodorant. Choose the product that will be most convenient and enjoyable for you to use.

Strength and Longevity

Deodorants and antiperspirants are often characterized as clinical strength when the formula contains higher levels of aluminum compared to traditional strength formulas, Penzi says. If you have hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating, she suggests looking for clinical-strength antiperspirants with a high percentage of aluminum. If you have sensitive skin or want to opt for more natural antibacterial ingredients, look for aluminum-free products. Just keep in mind that natural deodorants and antiperspirants typically don’t provide the same long-lasting protection that clinical strength products do.

Scent

Some deodorant products contain fragrances that can help mask body odors. But you might want to avoid fragrance if you have sensitive skin: “Fragrance itself can be very irritating to the skin, it can worsen eczema and can cause an allergic or irritant contact dermatitis,” Penzi says. “For people with super sensitive skin like this, opt for a fragrance-free deodorant or antiperspirant.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Are deodorants with aluminum bad for you?

If a deodorant contains aluminum, it then becomes an antiperspirant. In other words, the goal of aluminum is to block sweat glands, says Dr. Holmes.
“There are rumors that aluminum in deodorants and antiperspirants can cause Alzheimer's disease or breast cancer,” says Dr. Holmes. “Scientific literature states there is no link between aluminum chloride and the development of Alzheimer's.” And, although some scientists have suggested otherwise, there is currently no scientific evidence that supports a link between aluminum in deodorants and breast cancer.
Do deodorants expire?

Like any product, deodorants and antiperspirants do have a shelf life. They typically last between one and three years. Be sure to check the expiration date on your specific product, which is often located on the label.
Is spray or stick deodorant better?

The choice between a spray or stick deodorant is completely up to personal preference, says Garshick. It’s most important to choose a product that’s easy and pleasant to use.
Why do some people’s armpits sweat so much, even with deodorant?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that is characterized by excessive sweating, Garshick says. This could be why some people’s armpits sweat so much, even with deodorant. But if you produce excess sweat and don’t have this condition, it may be because you’re using a deodorant and not an antiperspirant. Antiperspirants (like Biotherma’s Antiperspirant Cream) are designed specifically to help reduce or block sweating, she explains.
How often should you apply deodorant if you sweat a lot?

It’s best to apply deodorant in the morning and reapply as needed throughout the day, Garshick says. To get the most out of an antiperspirant, you should apply it to dry skin at nighttime before going to bed.
What’s the best deodorant to stop sweaty armpits?

If sweat is your main concern, opt for an antiperspirant—we recommend DERMAdoctor’s Total Nonscents Ultra-Gentle Brightening Antiperspirant and SweatBlock’s Clinical Strength DRIBOOST Antiperspirant Wipes, among others. While deodorants work to minimize odor, we found that antiperspirants can really make a difference when it comes to excess moisture and sweat under your arms.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Michelle Parente is an experienced health and fitness writer who is passionate about making great product recommendations. She frequently attends hot yoga classes and leads a busy lifestyle, so she knows the importance of finding a high-quality deodorant that gets the job done.

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